Copycat Trader Joe’s Protein Pancakes Recipe

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Trader Joe’s Protein Pancakes are a total game-changer. Not only are they packed with 20 grams of protein per serving, but they’re also incredibly versatile!

How to make Trader Joe’s Protein Pancakes

Trader Joe’s Protein Pancakes are a ready-to-eat, high-protein breakfast item sold at Trader Joe’s grocery stores in the U.S. They’re designed as a quick, convenient way to start your day with a good amount of protein — without having to make pancakes from scratch.

Ingredients (Makes ~12 small pancakes)

• ½ cup cottage cheese (low-fat or whole milk)
• 3 large egg whites
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup oat flour (or blend rolled oats into a fine powder)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp sugar or honey (optional, for sweetness)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ cup milk or water (to adjust consistency)

Instructions

1. Blend it up: Place the cottage cheese, egg whites, and whole egg into a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. Add oat flour, baking powder, salt, vanilla extract, and optional sweetener (sugar or honey). Blend until the batter is smooth and thick but pourable. If the batter seems too thick, add milk or water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.
2. Heat the skillet: Preheat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly coat with cooking spray or butter.
3. Cook the pancakes: Scoop 2 tablespoons of batter for each pancake onto the skillet (silver dollar-sized pancakes). Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until small bubbles appear on the surface and the edges begin to set. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
4. Serve: Stack the pancakes and top with syrup, nut butter, fresh fruit, Greek yogurt, or your favorite toppings.

Tips for Success

• Blending is key: Blending the mixture ensures the batter is smooth and the cottage cheese is undetectable in texture.
• Oat flour alternative: If you don’t have oat flour, grind rolled oats in a food processor or blender until finely powdered.
• Customization: For flavor twists, mix in cocoa powder, cinnamon, or even blueberries/chocolate chips to the batter.

What to serve with

Trader Joe’s Protein Pancakes are a wholesome, satisfying breakfast or snack option, but what you serve alongside them can take your meal to the next level.

• Bananas: Slice fresh bananas and layer them over your pancake stack. Add a drizzle of almond butter or peanut butter for a nutrient-packed breakfast!
• Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries add a tart, juicy contrast to the pancakes. You can serve them raw or lightly cook them into a warm berry compote.
• Citrus Zest: Add a sprinkle of lemon or orange zest for bright, tangy notes that complement the pancakes.

Ingredients Substitutes

Trader Joe’s Protein Pancakes are a fan-favorite for their high protein content and balanced flavor, but no two kitchens are the same, and sometimes you might need to make substitutions while preparing them.

1. Flour (Oat Flour)

Oat flour is the base in many protein pancake recipes, including Trader Joe’s frozen variety. If you don’t have oat flour on hand or need to swap it for another type of flour, consider these alternatives:

• All-Purpose Flour: A 1:1 substitution works well, though it will reduce the fiber content and make the pancakes slightly less protein-rich.
• Whole Wheat Flour: Use whole wheat flour if you’re looking for a healthier alternative to AP flour. It will add a hearty flavor but may make the batter slightly denser.
• Almond Flour: This low-carb, gluten-free option is great for adding healthy fats. Use a ratio of 1 cup oat flour = 1½ cups almond flour (increase eggs for binding if needed).
• Coconut Flour: A great gluten-free, high-fiber substitute, though it’s highly absorbent. Use much less coconut flour (about ¼ cup for every 1 cup oat flour) and increase the liquid content.
• Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour Blends: For a gluten-free alternative, a 1:1 gluten-free flour mix like Bob’s Red Mill works great.

2. Protein Powder

Trader Joe’s Protein Pancake Mix blends standard pancake ingredients with whey protein to boost protein content. If you’re recreating the mix yourself or want to add even more protein, here are your options:

• Whey Protein Powder: Swap with any unflavored or vanilla whey protein. This is the closest match to TJ’s mix.
• Plant-Based Protein: Use pea, rice, or hemp protein powder for a dairy-free alternative. Note that plant proteins may alter the flavor slightly and can make the pancakes denser, so adjust the liquid as needed.
• Collagen Peptides: A great option for a neutral-tasting protein boost that keeps the pancakes light and fluffy.
• Greek Yogurt: Instead of protein powder, swap it with ½ cup of plain Greek yogurt. This not only adds protein but also makes the pancakes extra moist.

3. Sweeteners

Trader Joe’s Protein Pancake Mix is lightly sweetened with sugar. If you’re looking to replicate that sweetness or need sugar substitutes, here are some alternatives:

• Honey or Maple Syrup: Natural sweeteners that add moisture and flavor, though they may slightly thin the batter. (½ cup sugar = ⅓ cup honey or syrup).
• Coconut Sugar: A fantastic swap for an unrefined, low-glycemic sweetener. Use a 1:1 ratio.
• Stevia or Monk Fruit (Zero-Calorie Sweeteners): If you’re cutting back on sugar, stevia or monk fruit can substitute. Be sure to check the package for proper conversion ratios as they are much sweeter than sugar.
• Unsweetened Applesauce: A healthy, naturally sweet ingredient that works as both a sweetener and oil substitute. Replace part of the sugar with applesauce (1 cup sugar = ¾ cup applesauce) and reduce liquid.
• Banana: Mashed ripe banana adds natural sweetness, fiber, and moisture. Use about ½ banana to replace 2 tablespoons of sugar.

Final Thoughts

Trader Joe’s Protein Pancakes are the ultimate customizable base.